The 25-year-old Port Arthur native sustained the life-threatening injury while making a tackle in a Sept. 9 game against the Denver Broncos.

"To my fans: Thank you for your loyalty," Everett said in Sunday's statement. "To my doctors and physical therapists: Thank you for keeping me healthy and strong. To my friends and family: Thank you for your unwavering love and support. Until next time."

He underwent a four-hour surgery in New York after the hit.

Everett, who was the Bills' third-round pick in the 2005 NFL draft, arrived in Houston for treatment in late September. Even though his chance of regaining a full range of motion were once considered remote, Everett took steps with the assistance of a walker five weeks after his injury.

He noted in the statement, "I still have a long journey to full recovery."

His mother, Patricia Dugas, and three younger sisters all live in Houston and Everett calls Houston home in the off-season.